If desired, familiarize the students with the following vocabulary words before beginning this unit: anthem, banner, patriotism, preservation, spangled, stars and stripes, and symbol.

Obtain background information on the Star-Spangled Banner from The Star-Spangled Banner web feature from the Smithsonian Museum of American History.Bookmark them, if possible download and print out the selected documents and duplicate copies as necessary for student viewing. Review each lesson in this unit and select appropriate archival materials to use in class discussions-particularly for Lesson 3.Throughout the lesson, engage students to think outside the historical context challenge them to think critically about what the flag and anthem mean to Americans, to our country, and to the rest of the world. The second part concentrates on the flag's symbolism. The first section concentrates on the historic origin of the Star-Spangled Banner. This unit is divided into two parts, each of which can be used independently. In the second part of the unit, students will review the symbols within the flag and look at some historic images of the flag that have become part of our national consciousness. Using archival documents and images, students will associate Key's words with historic events and recognize the sentiment those words inspired. The flag became 'the primary symbol of American patriotism' after Francis Scott Key's poetic account of the bombardment of Fort McHenry stirred a powerful sentiment in the American people. Early American gold coins, for example, featured the eagle and the 'Liberty Cap.' While the Liberty Cap is scarcely recognized today, the American flag has grown in importance. Prior to 1814, other American symbols were more prominent than the American flag. 'Symbols of a New Nation', The Star Spangled Banner. By giving the flag a starring role in one of the most celebrated victories of the war, Francis Scott Key’s song established a new prominence for the flag as an expression of national identity, unity, and pride.' When Key declared that “our flag was still there,” he fused the physical symbol of the nation with universal feelings of patriotism, courage, and resilience. ' inspired a fresh wave of patriotism in a generation too young to remember the Revolution.

Lyrics of the star spangled banner song